Pure LLD: 105/f2.5 AIS or 105/f1.8?

This is entirely LLD :biggrin:, I don't need either of these. I've already got a 90/f2.8 macro and a 135/f2 - and four zooms that cover the range in question. I don't even particularly have any type of shot in mind!

Still, looking at Lisa's thread on the 105/f2.5 AIS, I want one, just because it produces such great results. But then I got to thinking about the 105/f1.8, which would go nicely with the 135/f2 and the other MF f/1.4s I have...

Which would you get and why?

(I'm not considering the 105/f2 AFD DC, since the 135/f2 is about to be upgraded to the 135/f2 AFD DC.)

One of the attractive things about the 105/f2.5 is that there are SO MANY of them around that they can be had for ridiculous prices (< $200 in mint condition, < $100 in great usable condition)...

I have both and did a side by side test at some point. I don't remember the exact results, but my conclusion was that they were both very sharp and the differences were negligible. I reach for the 105/2.5 when I need to stay compact. When I need the "special effects" of f/1.8 or when I carry a bag of lenses, I reach for the 105/1.8. I mostly reach for the 105/1.8.

Brian, being a owner of the 105 2.5 lens, it only makes me want to try that 105 1.8 now. If it's better than the 2.5, I'm in for a real treat!
I do like my 2.5 lens for sure (only had it one day as you may know).

I bought my 105/2.5 ais based off someone posting some pics online. If you're going to buy a lens for any reason, I think the pictures they produce should be at the top. So when I found out I could get a mint one for $250, I just bought one without much question. When I get a D200 it will be a lot more fun, but it's a great looking and well-made lens that produces great colors imho. It's not the sharpest, nor does it have amazing bokeh, but I really like the sort of 'hard' bokeh it does have. And the colors look awesome to me.

I was in the same situation as jcovert. I really liked the pics that someone posted online, and it's not often that someone in my income bracket can run and grab a "legendary" Nikon lens. I actually found mine on craigslist in great condition for $100. It will be more fun when I have a D200 or S5, but 'til then, I'm learning a lot about exposure, so that's valuable too.

Well, count me as one of those who considers that the 105mm f/2.5 has qualities that aren't as easily measured as one might like, but, like the 28-70mm, there is just something about the 105mm f/2.5 that's special and wonderful.

None of that means that the f/2.5 is per se "better" than the f/1.8, just that it has its own very specific character.

If you need the speed, go for the 1.8 version. I have both and I prefer the 2.5 for it's weight and especially the handling. It may have a slight edge in sharpness at 2.5, but it's hard to tell. The 1.8 has a fairly large difference in diameters between the body and the aperture ring and, for me, it makes it a little clumsy to use with my fat fingers.

The 1.8 is a lot more expensive and harder to find than the 2.5 if that makes a difference to you.

Either version is a great lens. You pays your money and takes your choice...

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